How do primaries impact voter experience?

Surveys conducted by Better Choices for Democracy and other institutions show that voters feel elected leaders don’t care about them, don’t represent them and are frustrated that elected leaders aren’t solving problems. A majority of voters also report that they feel forced to choose between candidates from disliked parties who answer to special interests rather than the general public. A majority also say the November election feels decided before they have even cast a ballot.

Election rules determine who runs for office, what kind of campaign they run, and whose support candidates need to win. Those rules shape not only who gets elected, but how candidates campaign and govern.

Under the current rules, most politicians are elected in a low-turnout primary in which only the most engaged and partisan voters turn out.  A system that requires politicians to earn support from at least 50% of the voters restores the principle of majority rule, and makes all voters feel seen and heard again. 

Use the map below to see how what the primary election process is in your state and explore turnout trends.